Nobu Matsuhisa

Nobu Matsuhisa

Nobu Matsuhisa with sushi

Nobu Matsuhisa is a renowned Japanese chef and restaurateur, best known for his fusion cuisine blending traditional Japanese dishes with Peruvian ingredients. His innovative approach to cooking has earned him international acclaim and a global network of restaurants.

Early Life

Nobu Matsuhisa was born in Saitama, Japan, in 1949. From a young age, he was exposed to the culinary arts, which sparked his interest in becoming a chef. After completing his formal education, Matsuhisa moved to Tokyo to train as a sushi chef, where he honed his skills in traditional Japanese cooking techniques.

Career

Move to Peru

In the late 1970s, Matsuhisa moved to Peru to open a Japanese restaurant. It was here that he began experimenting with local ingredients, such as cilantro and jalapeños, which were not traditionally used in Japanese cuisine. This fusion of flavors became a hallmark of his cooking style.

Establishment of Nobu Restaurants

After several years in Peru and a brief stint in Argentina, Matsuhisa moved to Los Angeles, California. In 1987, he opened his first restaurant, Matsuhisa, in Beverly Hills. The restaurant quickly gained popularity, attracting a celebrity clientele and critical acclaim.

In 1994, Matsuhisa partnered with actor Robert De Niro to open the first Nobu restaurant in New York City. The success of this venture led to the expansion of the Nobu brand, with locations opening in major cities around the world, including London, Tokyo, and Dubai.

Culinary Style

Matsuhisa's culinary style is characterized by its innovative use of ingredients and techniques. He is known for dishes such as black cod with miso and yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño. His approach to cooking emphasizes the balance of flavors and the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Legacy

Nobu Matsuhisa has been instrumental in popularizing Japanese cuisine globally. His restaurants have received numerous accolades, and he has been recognized as a pioneer in the culinary world. Matsuhisa's influence extends beyond his restaurants, as he has authored several cookbooks and continues to inspire chefs worldwide.

Related Pages

• Japanese cuisine
• Sushi
• Fusion cuisine
• Robert De Niro